Sample resignation letter

Ready to leave your job? Learn how to write a resignation letter that keeps you in good standing with your employer. This sample letter of resignation can help you find the right words.

Kim Isaacs, Monster contributor

Great news! You found a new job on Monster and are super-thrilled—way to go! There's one order of business you need to take care of before you start mentally decorating your new desk. You need to write a resignation letter telling your current boss that you're leaving.

Whether or not you’re leaving on good terms, it’s proper protocol to submit a letter of resignation. Keep your cool. You might be tempted to quickly write a simple resignation letter and move on, but this formal good-bye is worth further consideration.

While the purpose of the resignation letter is to inform your employer that you’re quitting, you can use it as an opportunity to build relationships and leave on a positive note (no pun intended).

What is a resignation?

A resignation is the act of leaving your job. A resignation letter expresses your intention to leave the company you currently work for.

Should you write a resignation letter?

You should write a resignation letter because it's the professional thing to do, whether you work at a hospital or a coffee shop. A resignation letter officially gives notice to your boss that you're leaving the job and someone else will need to be hired to replace you and take on your responsibilities.

What is a two weeks' notice letter?

A two weeks' notice letter is essentially the same thing as a resignation letter. (It's more professional-sounding than "quit letter" and "job leaving letter," don't you think?) This letter announces your intent to depart from the company and says you will remain in your position for another two weeks before leaving. Two weeks is the standard amount of time from when you announce you're leaving to your last day at your job.

What to write in a resignation letter?

A resignation letter should include the following:

a statement of intent that you will be leaving your job

the name of your official staff position

the date of your last day on the job

gratitude to your employer for hiring you

a highlight of your time there (optional)

an offer to train your replacement

well wishes for the future of the company

your contact info

Best resignation letter sample

If you’re not sure how to write a resignation letter, use this sample for inspiration:

Please accept this letter as notice of my resignation from my position as staff accountant. My last day of employment will be [date].

I received an offer to serve as senior accountant of a Fortune 500 company, and after careful consideration, I realize that this opportunity is too exciting for me to decline.

It has been a pleasure working with you and your team over the last three years. One of the highlights of my career was collaborating with you to automate ABC Company’s accounting, financial and balance systems and setting up your accounting infrastructure. Your company is poised for continued growth and I wish you much success with your upcoming acquisition of XYZ Company.

I would like to help with the transition of my accounting duties so that systems continue to function smoothly after my departure. I am available to help recruit and train my replacement, and I will make certain that all reporting and records are updated before my last day of work.

Joyce, thank you again for the opportunity to work for ABC Company. I wish you and your staff all the best and I look forward to staying in touch with you. You can email me anytime at jones@somedomain.com or call me at 555-555-5555.

Sincerely,

Roberta Jones

Itching to send out a resignation letter of your own? We can help with that. Join Monster today. As a member, you can upload up to five versions of your resume and cover letter. Recruiters search Monster every day looking to fill top jobs with highly talented candidates—just like you. (We can help you with a thank-you letter too.)